Local councillor says Mayo has ‘significant challenges’ with derelict sites

A Mayo councillor has said the county currently faces ‘significant challenges’ with derelict and vacant sites.

According to Cllr Alma Gallagher, the challenge impacts both the community’s aesthetic appeal and the potential for addressing the housing crisis. 

Local authorities in Ireland are mandated to keep a record of derelict sites within their jurisdictions, which are subject to a levy of 7 percent of their market value. This is intended to incentivise owners to either sell or develop these properties, however, the current system has shown limitations in effectiveness.

“Mayo County Council must adopt a more aggressive stance on the Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPOs). By acquiring derelict sites through CPOs, the council can unlock these properties’ potential, transforming them into viable housing solutions or other community benefits,” stated Cllr Gallagher. 

She continued: “Increasing the levies on derelict sites will further compel owners to take action. Currently, the seven percent levy appears insufficient in encouraging compliance and prompt payment.

Recently, Deputy Michael Ring, called for a more a 'proactive approach' to tackle the issue of dereliction after learning that Mayo County Council acquired five sites by way of Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) across 2022 and 2023.

“A higher levy rate, coupled with the responsibility for collection shifting to the Revenue Commissioners, could improve the efficiency of this process,” added Cllr Gallagher. 

Mayo has the second-highest number of vacant sites in Ireland, with a cumulative amount of levies outstanding nearly reaching €850,000. 

In 2023, Mayo County Council imposed charges on 126 sites, totalling €709,000. Despite these efforts, only €14,000 has been paid.

The local authority’s records reveal a concerning number of derelict sites, according to Cllr Gallagher, each contributing to the broader issue of housing shortages. 

This adjustment would ensure that owners face significant financial consequences for leaving properties derelict, motivating owners to either develop or sell their sites, she added. 

Given the housing crisis facing Mayo, Cllr Gallagher called it ‘imperative’ for local authorities to leverage ‘all available tools to mitigate dereliction’. 

“The use of CPOs should be prioritised, and the legislative framework governing derelict site levies must be reviewed and strengthened. By doing so, we can transform these neglected sites into assets that contribute positively to our housing stock and overall community development,” commented the Ballyhaunis native.

She said addressing the issue is ‘not just a matter of policy but of necessity’. 

“It requires a collaborative effort between the local authorities, property owners, and the government to ensure that our towns and cities thrive, providing adequate housing and improved quality of life for all residents,” concluded Cllr Gallagher.